To celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Big Mac, McDonald’s unveiled the MacCoin, a limited edition global currency* backed by the internationally iconic Big Mac that fans around the world can share, collect or redeem for a free Big Mac at participating McDonald’s restaurants in more than 50 participating countries.

In its 50 years, the legendary taste of the Big Mac helped it achieve universal recognition and a lasting legacy. No matter where they live in the world, Big Mac fans recognize the two all-beef patties, special sauce, lettuce, cheese, pickles and onions on a sesame seed bun as the iconic burger with a flavor combination that’s just as delicious as the day it was introduced. It has become such a global phenomenon that The Economist magazine created the Big Mac Index, using the price of the Big Mac as an economic tool that compares the purchase power of different international currencies year after year. This inspired the creation of the MacCoin.

To launch the MacCoin in Lebanon, a series of activations will take place across the country to raise awareness about the MacCoin and its economic and social value. The first phase will focus on building its economic status through media and social media coverage. In the second phase, the focus will be on its social status through collaborations with influencers, media, and radio stations. An event will be hosted to launch the MacCoin and reflect its universal aspect. Invitees will get the chance to enjoy a Big Mac experience in settings of different countries while sipping refreshing smoothies.

McDonald’s Managing Partner, Mr. Karim Miknas added that, “McDonald’s has always been a positive contributor to economies around the world, employing crew and managers as well as building strong supplier and partner networks. The MacCoin is a way of illustrating that. Plus is one coin that doesn’t lose its value so no matter how currencies fluctuate; the Big Mac will always cost one MacCoin. We are very happy to launch it in Lebanon at the same time its being launched globally. In the end its about having a little fun and rewarding our guests’ loyalty.”

More than 6.2 million MacCoins will be distributed globally in more than 50 countries (while supplies last). These commemorative coins feature five unique designs, each representing a decade of the Big Mac and pull in elements from a point in time in history, nodding to art, music and pop culture, while the front of the MacCoin celebrates the 50th anniversary of the Big Mac. Additionally, the seven languages featured across the various designs represent many of the countries participating: Arabic, English, Indonesian, Mandarin, Portuguese, Quebecois and Spanish.

*MacCoin has no cash value and is only redeemable for one free Big Mac at participating McDonald’s restaurants through 2018.